When it comes to the Christmas period, no one wants to worry about how other visitors perceive their home, and whilst you can close the door to some of your less well-kept rooms, a grotty bathroom will understandably be a little bit of a worry if you’re expecting guests throughout the festive season.
Tiles can become discoloured, cracked and dull, but there are ways you can prevent this from happening, and fix some minor problems with your tiles before your guests arrive.
Firstly, in order to clean the tiles to a great standard, you’ll need the following:
• A sponge. Make sure it’s not an abrasive one, as you don’t want to ruin the finish on your tiles.
• A spray bottle containing vinegar
• Some salt and baking soda
• A little lemon juice
Firstly, spray some neat vinegar onto your tiles and putting some pressure on the sponge, rub the tile in a circular motion. DO NOT rinse the vinegar off, as it will not leave a smell or residue on your tiles.
For more stained tiles, try using a paste of salt, baking soda and a little water. This will safely scrub the tile without scratching the surface. Use your sponge to rub in small circles on the most stained part, and rinse after you’re done. This may leave a little residue so to remove this and make your tiles shine, rub lemon juice onto the tiles.
Grotty grouting?
Cleaning your grouting is another matter. You will need a chemical cleaner in order to do this properly. A good suggestion is to use bleach and water and either buy a proper grout brush, or use an old toothbrush. Scrub the area thoroughly and leave it for 10 minutes. Then rinse off thoroughly with a sponge. Remember to wear gloves when you do this to avoid skin irritation from the bleach. Caulking around your bath can be cleaned in the same manner.
To ensure your tiles remain clean and mould free, it’s best to clean them regularly. Your bathroom should be kept as dry as possible and you can help by ensuring a window is left open for a short time after baths or showers. This will ensure that mildew is kept to a minimum.
Fixing damaged tiles
When it comes to damaged tiles, do not despair. If you have to replace a tile, and can’t find one that matches, consider replacing a few with tiles of a different colour to make a pattern. This will save money and time. It is possible to replace tiles without cracking those around the damaged tile, and if you can find a contrasting tile that fits, then you can make your bathroom look better in a fraction of the time.
Firstly you need to remove the grouting around the damaged tile. Be careful not to damage any waterproof membrane behind. Then, using a masonry drill, make small holes in the tile, which will enable you to break the tile up to, remove it. Chisel the tile out, and remove the mortar from the back. Once you have done so, ensure that any waterproof membrane is still intact and then you can go ahead and replace the tile.
If you use these few tips, you could have your bathroom looking great for any visitors this Christmas.